Tuberculosis and the implications for healthcare workers in hospitals

In response to concerns about the rising incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in the United Kingdom, the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence has issued fresh guidance on TB and its management for prevention and control. Inadequate infection control procedures have been cited as the main contributing factors to institutional outbreaks of the disease. The control and prevention ofTB in hospitals is best achieved by three approaches: early diagnosis, good isolation management and adoption of personal protective equipment. Implementing appropriate infection control policies and procedures can reduce transmission of TB, help increase healthcare workers' awareness and compliance with practice and improve patients' stay in hospitals. This article highlights the role of healthcare workers in minimizing the risk of transmission of TB and reviews the current infection control recommendations for the management of patients with TB.